Decarboxylation is a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group and releases carbon dioxide (CO2). Usually, decarboxylation refers to a reaction of carboxylic acids, removing a carbon atom from a carbon chain.
What enzyme causes decarboxylation?
Pyruvate decarboxylase is an enzyme (EC 4.1. 1.1) that catalyses the decarboxylation of pyruvic acid to acetaldehyde.
Where does the decarboxylation take place?
Explanation: Pyruvate decarboxylation occurs in the mitochondrial matrix. The acetyl CoA produced from the pyruvate decarboxylation reaction will undergo the Citric Acid cycle also in the mitochondrial matrix.
